As you are fully aware, we are in the middle of a season where COVID-19 (aka Coronavirus) is daily changing the way the world is thinking and living. During this time, we are reminded that we are people of faith—not of fear. Even though our hope is in God, we also want to keep you informed of the steps Valleybrook is taking in responding to the current situation to limit concerns and promote safety.
First, our cleaning staff continues to maintain regular schedules throughout the week, which includes disinfecting commonly used surfaces, such as door knobs, railings, furniture, and so on. Toys in the kid’s areas are also washed before and after every Sunday service. In addition, our Imitate ministry procedures include children washing hands before entering the Imitate Rooms, and also before and after every snack time.
Second, know that we are encouraging prevention measures. We will still have our church functions as scheduled. However, at this point, we encourage you to refrain from handshaking or hugging. You’ll still be greeted at the front door with a smile and a “good morning.” We encourage everyone to feel free to get creative with greeting one another, like using the “air fist bump.”
Third, we encourage everyone to adhere to the common sense CDC’s recommendations to...
- Stay home when you are sick and livestream our services.
- Avoid close contact with people who are sick.
- Cover your coughs and sneezes with a tissue and have your children do the same.
- Wash your hands often with soap and water for at least 20 seconds, especially after going to the bathroom; before eating; and after blowing your nose, couching, or sneezing. If soap and water are not readily available, use a hand sanitizer that contains at least 60% alcohol. (Hand sanitizer is always available and visible through VBC.)
Finally, we may be entering a fruitful season of spiritual conversations. Whenever the historic church was faced with crisis or difficulty, God used those opportunities to rapidly spread the Good News of the Gospel and grow the church. These are opportunities to live as people of faith, and not fear. Though many around us may be careful + fearful, we would like to invite you to be careful + prayerful. Philippians 4:6 says, “Do not be anxious about anything, but in every situation, by prayer and petition, with thanksgiving, present your requests to God.” It is possible to navigate the spread of COVID-19 with wisdom, with caution, yet without fear.
As our Leadership Team receives updates from the Eau Claire County Department of Health for guidelines and updates regarding COVID-19, we will keep our communication updated.